There's more to cooking than just food...For some couples, finding romance after a long day can be tough and finding it in the kitchen can be even harder. While one wants to zone out in front of the TV, the other may want to blow off some steam with a jog. The idea of tabling one's guilty pleasures in lieu of another task like cooking may seem daunting, however the following five tips can ensure the process of cooking is relaxing, romantic, and fun.

Music

Rather than forcing conversation while listening to the skillet sizzle, let music do the talking for you! A pairing of music with the succulent smells of cooking create a rich resturant-esque experience that couples can enjoy with or without conversation. I've said it before and I'll say it again, there is no better music to cook to than Pandora's Frank Sinatra Radio. The array of big band sounds to mellow crooning create an active ambiance that brings the kitchen to life.

Drinks

If music isn't quite spicing up the night just right, mix a little cocktail, pour a little wine, or crack open a beer. A spirit or two will help loosen the mood and knock down the walls that have been built up after long day. Be sure to pair your drinks with a little appetizer to get your taste buds excited for the entrée. Cheers!

Candles

With music pleasing your ears, appetizers calming your taste buds, drinks relaxing your nerves, and cooking aromas pleasing your nose, why not round out your senses with some visuals? Light a few candles to warm up the aesthetics of the kitchen, crafting a romantic vibe in a place of labor.

Sous

Some cooks may feel better off alone but if given the opportunity to help prep a meal, take it! Nothing creates a shared experience in the kitchen like prepping chopped veggies, mixing a dressing, or de-shelling shrimp for the cook of the house. The sous chef will feel a sense of appreciation for the cook while the cook will feel a sense of relief for the help. Plus, the end product will likely come sooner!

Dishes

If food prep is complete (or the room for a sous chef cannot be found) start the dishes. Proper food prep typically requires a mass of dishes and silverware and instead of staving off the dishes for after dinner, get ahead of the game by knocking some out while the cook is hard at work. This will also relieve the stress of running out of tools and dishes or juggling utensils back and forth between the sink and the work area. Not to mention, your meal is sure to feel a bit more relaxing knowing the post-cooking fiasco is nearly done!